Transporting apparatus for electrochemical energy storage apparatus

ABSTRACT

A transporting apparatus ( 100; 102; 104 ) for at least one electrochemical energy-storage means ( 150 ) has at least one accommodating means ( 110, 120, 130, 140, 160 ), for accommodating the hazardous substance ( 150 ) at least in part, and at least one safety device ( 132, 134, 136, 138, 142, 170, 180 ), for safeguarding against a hazard situation caused by the hazardous substance ( 150 ) accommodated.

The present invention relates to a transporting apparatus, particularlyfor transporting and storing hazardous material, in particular foraccommodating electrochemical energy storage apparatus, particularlylithium ion cells or lithium ion batteries.

The following specific risks are known to be associated with lithium ionbatteries and lithium ion cells in particular: leaking of liquidelectrolytes, short circuits, fires including up to explosions. In orderto reduce these risks, such batteries and cells often have housingswhich have been adapted so as to increase their safety. EP 2 180 537 A2describes an example of this.

Measures which reduce or eliminate the risk of the interior contentbeing released into the environment under normal storage or transportconditions, particularly which prevent the content from being releasedinto the environment, are therefore to be taken when storing ortransporting electrochemical energy storage apparatus, particularly whenthey are damaged. Simple packaging, such as into cardboard boxes, forexample, do not serve this purpose. Instead, accommodating apparatus arerequired which provide e.g. safety in its accommodation, particularlyfor the packing and transporting of e.g. electrochemical energy storageapparatus, so as to prevent any hazardous material from leaking out intothe surroundings. Further costly measures such as providing fireextinguishers, for example, are often additionally taken in the priorart in order to be able to quickly and effectively control any potentialfire.

The new standards for electrochemical energy storage apparatus (highestpossible performance at lowest possible weight or size), particularlythose which can be used as energy sources in electrically powered motorvehicles, result in their transportation running an increased risk,particularly if they're damaged or defective, since in the case of fire,for example, very violent decomposition reactions including up toexplosion can occur, whereby toxic and environmentally hazardous gasessuch as chlorine or sulfur dioxide can also be produced which can escapeinto the environment.

Hence, the transporting of such electrochemical energy storage units,predominantly containing organic, liquid electrolytes, is generallysubject to strict regulations which are encapsulated into numerousguidelines including the following primarily European guidelines listedas an example:

-   -   ADR=European Agreement Concerning the International Transport of        Dangerous Goods on the Road    -   RID=European Agreement Concerning the International Transport of        Dangerous Goods by Rail    -   IMDG Code=international Maritime Dangerous Goods Code    -   ADN=European Agreement Concerning the Carriage of Dangerous        Goods by Inland Waterways    -   ICAO-TI and IATA DGR=policies for transporting dangerous goods        by air

These guidelines define for example the permitted maximum quantity ofhazardous material able to be transported, the allowable types ofpackaging and packaging materials, and also safety precautions such assecuring cargo to prevent shifting or having fire extinguishers on hand.

Yet these guidelines lack a technically sophisticated and above alluniform specification of a compulsory accommodating apparatus forelectrochemical energy storage apparatus.

Thus, the regulation applying to used lithium ion cells (from the ADR),for example, stipulates that they may be transported in so-called 1H2containers. The 1H2 specification hereby stands for the type ofcontainer, its material and its classification:

-   -   1=type of container (e.g. pouch, box)    -   H=container material (e.g. wood, steel)    -   2=classification (e.g. open or closed)

Yet the above-cited guidelines do not consider cases of noxious orpolluting substances never-theless posing a danger, for exampleescaping. Hence there are no meaningful measures stipulated for suchhazardous situations.

CA 2,280,620 A1 discloses a battery case consisting of two parts andbattery supports which are spaced apart such that any battery acid whichmight leak is accommodated in the interspaces therebetween.

WO 02/21614 A1 discloses a container for transporting small batteries,wherein the container has a predefined bursting strength.

The invention is based on the task of providing a safe transportingapparatus, particularly for the transporting and storing of hazardousmaterial, electrochemical energy storage apparatus in particular, whichis particularly simple and compact.

This is accomplished in accordance with the invention by the teaching ofthe independent claims. Preferential embodiments of the inventionconstitute the subject matter of the subclaims.

As described in detail below, this task is solved by a transportingapparatus for hazardous material, particularly for at least oneelectrochemical energy storage apparatus, which comprises at least oneaccommodating apparatus to at least partially accommodate the hazardousmaterial and at least one safety device to counter a hazard posed by thehazardous material.

The advantage of the present invention consists of at least one safetydevice being integrated into the transporting apparatus. This couplingof an apparatus accommodating hazardous material and a safety deviceresults in the safety function of the safety device being able todirectly counteract a potential hazard; i.e. in a more targeted orfaster manner, for example.

The accommodating apparatus preferably has an underside which can beconfigured particularly such that a container can be placed atop anoptional base plate by virtue of its comprising protrusions or othersupport plates to engage in e.g. a Euro pallet, (electro)magneticretaining elements for securing metallic components, or base elementsable to be for example elastically deformable or the like. The undersidepreferably exhibits at least one substantially level section or issubstantially flat such that when the transporting apparatus ispositioned as intended, the normal of the level runs perpendicular tothe direction of gravity. In the context of the present invention'sdescription, this corresponds to the negative z direction which is alsoreferred to as “downward” (commensurate with the positive z direction:“upward”). Contrastingly, i.e. above the underside, the accommodatingapparatus comprises an upper side.

The accommodating apparatus preferably comprises or consists of a frameor a rack. It is preferably respectively designed such that it enframesor encompasses the volume to be accommodated. The accommodatingapparatus, the frame or rack in particular, is preferably designed toprovide resistance against mechanical stress on the accommodatingapparatus in order to ensure stability. The accommodating apparatuspreferably resists load due to positive or negative pressure of +/−1 baror higher/lower within the accommodating apparatus, whereby thesepressure differences act to delimit the interior of the accommodatingapparatus from its exterior in terms of a notional or actual casing forthe accommodating apparatus. The accommodating apparatus preferablyresists external load of preferably up to 130 N/cm² or higher,essentially without the accommodating apparatus sustaining any damage.

The frame or the rack can comprise securing devices so as to be able tofix the accommodating apparatus, and thus the transporting apparatus,i.e. limit or preferably prevent their displacement in relation to theirsurroundings, e.g. the floor of a truck. A securing device can compriselocking means by means of which fixing can occur by locking thetransporting apparatus into place via complementary locking meansprovided in the surroundings. Complementary securing means, e.g.complementary locking means, can also be disposed on the accommodatingapparatus or the transporting apparatus itself. In this case, aplurality of transporting apparatus and/or accommodating apparatus canbe connected together, e.g. locked into place, in order to form anassemblage of multiple transporting apparatus, for example, or in orderto form a transporting apparatus comprising e.g. a plurality ofaccommodating apparatus. Coupling multiple accommodating apparatus oftransporting apparatus restricts their mobility which can increasesafety during storage or transport.

The accommodating apparatus preferably comprises a base plate. The baseplate can be formed by a preferably rectangular body, particularly abody stable to loads of up to 2000 kg or more, for example by at leastone plate in accordance with an industry standard, e.g. a Euro pallet,preferably a Euro pallet in accordance with DIN EN 13698, whichpreferably has a surface area of from 0.1 to 2 m², preferably 0.5 to 1.5m², preferably 0.7 to 1.0 m², preferably 0.96 m². The surface area canpreferably also be larger or smaller. The Euro pallet preferablyexhibits an external length dimension of from 100 to 2000 mm, preferably800 to 1500 mm, preferably 1000 to 1300 mm, preferably 1200 mm. The Europallet preferably exhibits an external width dimension of from 50 to2000 mm, preferably 300 to 1500, preferably 700 to 1200 mm, preferably800 mm. The Euro pallet preferably exhibits an external height dimensionof from 10 to 500 mm, preferably 50 to 350 mm, preferably 70 to 200 mm,preferably 144 mm. The length and/or width and/or height dimensions ofthe Euro pallet can preferably also be larger or smaller. Using a Europallet in accordance with DIN EN 13698, for example, provides theadvantage of being able to optimally utilize many devices which arealready incorporated into transport and warehousing systems, for exampleloading platforms on trucks, railway freight cars or shipping containerssince they are often optimally dimensioned to the standard dimensions ofthe Euro pallet. The base plate can comprise a securing device to fixthe accommodating apparatus to the base plate or to fix the transportingapparatus with respect to its surroundings so as to enable fixation;i.e. limit or preferably prevent the displacing of the accommodatingapparatus or transporting apparatus.

The periphery of the base plate can preferably correspond to theperiphery of the optional frame or optional rack. The periphery of thebase plate can however also be larger or smaller than the frame or rackperiphery.

The accommodating apparatus can comprise a locking device, e.g. alocking plate, which can be configured as a cover device. The lockingdevice can be a separate component, particularly connectable to theaccommodating apparatus, or can be fixedly connected to theaccommodating apparatus; i.e. not detachable without destroying same.The accommodating apparatus can further comprise a retention device tohold the locking device. The retention device can comprise a hingearrangement or a rail arrangement so that the locking arrangement can berealized as a swivel catch or sliding lock. The locking plate cancomprise a securing device so that it can be fixed to the accommodatingapparatus. The securing device can have locking means, for example, ormagnetic locking or interlocking elements.

The periphery of the locking plate can preferably correspond to theperiphery of the optional frame or optional rack. The periphery of thelocking plate can however also be larger or smaller than the frame orrack periphery.

The accommodating apparatus can be designed as or comprise an open orclosed container exhibiting for example base plate, frame or rack andlocking plate. The container preferably has at least one side wall whichcan be formed in the shape of a hollow cylinder, for example, or haspreferably at least four connected side walls substantially enclosing acube-shaped volume. The capacity volume of the container is preferablysuited to accommodating a liquid volume of for example preferably 1 to1000 dm³, 100 to 800 dm³, 200 to 700 dm³, 500 to 700 dm³ or more or lessand safeguarding it from leaking at least in the gravitational direction(downward) under the force of gravity.

The (one or more) accommodating apparatus can be closed or closable tothe environment. The accommodating apparatus preferably comprises

at least one opening or a number (e.g. >2) or a plurality (e.g. >8) ofopenings, in particular openings which enable an operable connectionbetween the interior of the accommodating apparatus and the exterior ofthe accommodating apparatus or transporting apparatus. Doing soparticularly enables a safety device able to interact with the interiorof the accommodating apparatus, e.g. with the hazardous material, forexample to extinguish a fire. This at least one opening is preferablyformed at or in the upper side of the accommodating apparatus or closethereto, preferably in the optional locking device.

The components of the transporting apparatus, for example the base plateor frame or rack or the side walls of the accommodating apparatus, canconsist of any material suited to accommodating the respective hazardousmaterial, preferably treated, e.g. coated, or untreated wood, orrespectively similar plastic, metal, steel, aluminum, steel sheet, steelplate, fiber, fiber structure, felt or composite materials.

The components, for example base plate, side walls, frame or rack andlocking plate can preferably be joined together in a form-fit and/orforce-fit and/or material engagement, wherein unwanted leakage ofmaterial from the transporting apparatus into the environment and viceversa, substance infiltrating the transporting apparatus from theenvironment, can preferably be reduced, and even more preferentiallyprevented, particularly in an emergency. The accommodating apparatus orthe transporting apparatus can be designed as a module able to be joinedto other modules in a form-fit, preferentially force-fit and/orparticularly preferentially material engagement, wherein a compactnetwork of accommodating apparatus within a transporting apparatus or anetwork of transporting apparatus can be obtained.

The accommodating apparatus can be designed to be flexible, inparticular elastic; i.e. having an elasticity modulus of e.g. <0.5kN/mm² (or 0.1 or 0.05), which can be

achieved by using elastomers, for example silicone rubber. Alternativelyor additionally hereto, the accommodating apparatus can be designed tobe rigid, in particular substantially inelastic, for example having anelasticity modulus of >0.5 kN/mm² (or 0.1 or 0.05). The accommodatingapparatus can furthermore comprises flexible components combined withrigid components or can be without any rigid components, same also beingassociated with a safety device, for example. Elastic properties offerthe advantage of being able to absorb mechanical shocks acting on theaccommodating apparatus, for example from the outside, which can preventdamage. Rigid properties prevent unwanted deformation and providedimensional stability, which can likewise be preferential in providing astable accommodating apparatus.

The accommodating apparatus preferably comprises at least one dampingdevice. Said device can exhibit one or more elastic or inelasticdeformable sections which can convert kinetic energy into deformationand thermal energy upon mechanical shocks such as impacts, for example,in order to substantially absorb mechanical shocks or vibrations, thusprotecting the hazardous material. Such sections can be components ofthe respectively optional side walls, locking device, base plate, frame,rack or casing of the accommodating apparatus. The number of sectionscan be 1, 2 to 5, 6 to 10, 11 to 20, 30 to 50 or more. They can bearranged on one or more sides of the accommodating apparatus andparticularly be distributed evenly, e.g. equidistantly. The sections canfurthermore be separate components disposed or fixed on theaccommodating apparatus or one of its components. For example, saiddeformable section can also be designed as a closed or partial casingfor the accommodating apparatus so as to form an “outer buffer zone.”

An accommodating apparatus can preferably essentially comprise onesingle component and be integrally formed, for example as an

aluminum composite film or an aluminum part, and/or a plurality ofcomponents, for example a base plate, a frame, a rack or a lockingplate.

The transporting apparatus can be configured such that a firstaccommodating apparatus completely or at least partially encloses atleast one second accommodating apparatus. A first accommodatingapparatus can completely or at least partially enclose at least onesecond accommodating apparatus so that there is no operable connectionwhatsoever between the at least second accommodating apparatus and thesurroundings of the first accommodating apparatus and thus thetransporting apparatus as a whole. A first accommodating apparatus cancompletely or at least partially enclose the at least one secondaccommodating apparatus so as to enable an operable connection betweenthe at least one second accommodating apparatus and the environment. Afirst accommodating apparatus can be operably connected to at least onesecond accommodating apparatus. A first accommodating apparatus can haveno operable connection whatsoever to at least one second accommodatingapparatus. A first accommodating apparatus can have common componentswith at least one second accommodating apparatus. A first accommodatingapparatus can be in form-fit and/or force-fit and/or material engagementwith at least one second accommodating apparatus.

This variety of combination options between at least one first and onesecond accommodating apparatus allows the creating of a transportingapparatus having particular advantages in terms of functionality,flexibility, receptacle safety, content protection and manageability.

A first transporting apparatus can preferably be joined to at least onesecond transporting apparatus in a preferably form-fit and force-fitand/or material engagement.

In one embodiment, (one or more) accommodating apparatus is (an) outerpackaging which at least partially delimits the transporting apparatusoutwardly respective the environment and is in particular recyclable ornot recyclable and can be accordingly reused or not reused.

In one embodiment, (one or more) accommodating apparatus is (a)salvageable packaging apparatus which can repeatedly accommodatehazardous material such that it can be recovered from hazardoussituations (e.g. accidents, storage damage, etc.), for example, andwhich is preferably recyclable and able to be accordingly reused.

The safety device can be a component of the transporting apparatus aloneor in combination with other safety devices. Preferably, at least oneaccommodating apparatus or component of an accommodating apparatus canbe joined to at least one safety device in a preferably form-fit and/orforce-fit and/or material engagement.

The safety device(s) can be disposed within the interior of theaccommodating apparatus. The safety device(s) can be disposed at/on theaccommodating apparatus externally. The safety device(s) can be disposedbetween a first and at least one second accommodating apparatus. One ormore components of the safety device(s) can be disposed at/on the (oneor more) accommodating apparatus externally and/or parts inside saidaccommodating apparatus.

The safety device(s) can be in operable connection with the (one ormore) accommodating apparatus and/or the environment. The safetydevice(s) can have no operable connection whatsoever to the (one ormore) accommodating apparatus and/or environment.

In one embodiment, at least two safety devices can be provided. The atleast two safety devices can be disposed within the interior of the (oneor more) accommodating apparatus. The at least two safety devices can bedisposed at/on the (one or more) accommodating apparatus externally. Theat least two safety devices can be situated between accommodatingapparatus. The at least two safety devices can comprises components(s)external of the (one or more) accommodating apparatus and/or componentswithin the interior of the (one or more) accommodating apparatus.

The at least two safety devices can be operably connected to the (one ormore) accommodating apparatus. The at least two safety devices can haveno operable connection whatsoever to the (one or more) accommodatingapparatus. The at least two safety devices can have no operableconnection whatsoever to the environment. The at least two safetydevices can be operably connected to the environment.

The at least two safety devices can be operably connected to oneanother. The at least two safety devices can have no operable connectionwhatsoever to each other. The at least two safety devices can beoperably connected to one another and/or the (one or more) accommodatingapparatus and/or the environment. The at least two safety devices canhave no operable connection whatsoever to each other and/or the (one ormore) accommodating apparatus and/or the environment. The at least twosafety devices can be operably connected to at least one accommodatingapparatus and the environment. The at least two safety devices can haveno operable connection whatsoever to at least one accommodatingapparatus or the environment.

The safety devices can serve the same purpose, for example fireprevention. The safety devices can serve different purposes, for examplea first

safety device can serve in fire prevention and a second safety devicecan serve in containing leaking fluids.

At least one safety device for fire prevention and/or firefighting isadvantageously a component of the transporting apparatus. At least onesafety device for preventing substance leakage from the transportingapparatus is advantageously a component of the transporting apparatus.At least one safety device for preventing substance seeping into saidtransporting apparatus from the environment surrounding the transportingapparatus is advantageously a component of the transporting apparatus.

At least three safety devices are advantageously provided, wherein atleast one first safety device serves in fire prevention and/orfirefighting, at least one second safety device serves in absorbingand/or eliminating solid, liquid or gaseous (chemical) substances fromthe interior of an accommodating apparatus, and at least one thirdsafety device serves in absorbing and/or eliminating solid, liquid orgaseous (chemical) substances from the external environment of anaccommodating apparatus.

Preferably, the safety device(s) can be respectively inserted prior to,during and subsequent to assembling the transporting apparatus.

A safety device, particularly a container of fire extinguishing agent,is preferably positioned on a first accommodating apparatus, wherein thesafety device in particular discharges extinguishing agent upon aminimum temperature and/or a minimum pressure. A quick-dissolvingcapsule preferably triggers the discharge of extinguishing agent upon aminimum temperature and/or a minimum pressure. The extinguishing agentis preferably discharged by atomization.

The safety device is preferably designed as a container, preferably apad. A pad is to be understood as a container containing a fillermaterial. A pad preferably comprises an internal space for accommodatingsubstance, for example fire extinguishing agents, which are preferablydry, gel-like, liquid or preferably aerosol extinguishing agents. Thespace for accommodating the cited substance is preferably defined by acasing of the pad which is preferably flexible. The casing is preferablyof film-like design. The casing can be of multi-piece or one-piececonfiguration. A predetermined breaking point is preferably provided inthe casing at a specific position or positions which gives way upon theexceeding or falling short of specific parameter values, for exampleincreased pressure or increased temperature, and discharges the contentsinto the surroundings. Such a predetermined breaking point can bedesigned e.g. as a seam, a welded seam in particular.

A quick-dissolving capsule is preferably disposed in the casing orinside the casing which triggers an increase in pressure within thecasing upon the exceeding or falling short of specific parameter values,for example increased pressure or increased temperature, for example bymeans of releasing gases which discharge the extinguishing agent,preferably by atomization, preferably by one or more of thepredetermined breaking points opening. It is however also conceivablefor an extinguishing agent to be disposed within the casing which,following activation, for example subsequent a rise in temperature overa defined period of time, is activated and converted into a rapidlyexpanding extinguishing agent, for example into an aerosol.

In one embodiment, at least one safety device is advantageously designedas a fire extinguishing device. The fire extinguishing devicepreferentially contains at least one fire extinguishing agent or amixture of extinguishing agents. The fire extinguishing agent canconsist of or comprise inert gas, particularly C0₂, Ar or N₂ or amixture of gases. The extinguishing agent can consist of or comprise areaction-inhibiting medium and/or expanding foam. The extinguishingagent can consist of or comprise coolant containing at least oneextinguishing additive. The extinguishing agent can further consist ofor comprise an aerosol. Said aerosol can be a dry aerosol. Theextinguishing agent can be an extinguishing powder, particularly an ABCpowder, a BC powder or a D powder.

At least one fire extinguishing additive preferably consists of apolymer solution which absorbs multiple times its own weight in waterand employs an adhesive and heat-shielding gel consisting of evenlythickened water without any air bubbles.

At least one extinguishing agent additive preferably exhibits goodadhesiveness even to smooth perpendicular surfaces. Coating thicknessesup to 10 mm preferably ensue. The coating thickness can, however, alsobe thicker or thinner. Due to its physicochemical properties, the atleast one extinguishing agent additive preferably reduces theevaporation rate of the water even at high temperatures. This furtherpreferably reduces the amount of extinguishing water used. The at leastone extinguishing agent additive is preferably at least partlybiodegradable. Particularly preferential extinguishing agent additiveshave a product viscosity of 200-500 mPas at 20° C. Product viscositycan, however, also be higher or lower. Further particularly preferentialextinguishing agent additives have a density of 1.05 g/cm³. The densitycan, however, also be higher or lower.

Particularly preferential extinguishing agent (additives) have a pHvalue between 6.9 and 7.1 at 20° C. The pH value can, however, also behigher or lower. The preferential dosing rate of the extinguishing agent(additives) amounts to 1.0% to 1.5% during fire fighting, 2.0% to 3.0%when shielding, and 1.0% to 2.0% for extinguishers. The dosing rate can,however, also be higher or lower. An example of such a fireextinguishing agent additive is marketed by the Evonik company under thetrade name of “Firesorb” (2010; registration number PL 1-98).

At least one safety device preferably comprises a pressure relief devicewhich is preferably re-closable and which can in particular comprise avalve, for example a Hoerbiger valve and/or flap, for example amulti-element flap which can for example comprise a plurality oflamellae, wherein adjacent lamellae can be in contact in the closedstate. The flap can in particular be a spring-loaded flap.

The safety device can further comprise a predetermined breaking point,particularly in a component of the accommodating apparatus, for examplein the locking device.

The transporting apparatus preferably comprises at least one panelement. A pan element can be a trough-shaped component, a drip pan inparticular. At least one safety device is preferably designed as a drippan for fluids leaking from the accommodating apparatus, and preferablyconfigured from suitable material or a combination of suitable material,particularly steel, sheet metal, aluminum, copper, metal, plastic, forexample PVC or PE, or also from one or more films of one or more ofthese materials. The accommodating apparatus is preferably disposedwithin and/or external of the drip pan and preferably disposed withinthe drip pan. Said drip pan is preferably laterally dimensioned so asnot to exceed the lateral dimensions of a standard Euro pallet or sothat the lateral dimensions of the drip pan are substantially consistentwith the lateral dimensions of a standard Euro pallet. The drip pan canbe joined to at least one accommodating apparatus in a form-fit and/orforce-fit and/or material engagement, particularly fixedly; i.e. notdetachable without destroying same. It is however also possible for thedrip pan to not be connected to the at least one accommodatingapparatus.

The base or the sides of a pan element preferably comprise at least onespacer device, for example one or more plinths or ribs, in order todistance the base of the pan from the underside of the accommodatingdevice's base arranged above same. However, the underside of theaccommodating device's base can also exhibit the cited spacer device.Said spacer devices are preferably composed of material suited to thepurpose such as wood or metal, for example. Said spacer devices arepreferably joined together in a force-fit and/or material engagementwith the base of the drip pan and the underside of the accommodatingdevice's base. A spacer device can comprise locking means by means ofwhich fixation can be achieved by locking the transporting apparatusinto place with complementary locking means on the pan.

The at least one safety device is preferably capable of chemical and/orphysical adsorption and/or chemical and/or physical absorption of solidand/or liquid and/or gaseous (chemical) substances.

The hazardous material is preferably enclosed by at least one safetydevice which is capable of chemical and/or physical adsorption and/orchemical and/or physical absorption of solid and/or liquid and/orgaseous chemical substances.

In one embodiment, the safety device is configured as quick-hardeningfoam. Said foam can exhibit fire-retardant and/or moisture-absorbingand/or shock-absorbing properties, for example.

At least one safety device is preferably designed as a flame-retardantand/or gas and/or fluid-tight casing for the hazardous material,particularly for fire prevention purposes, preferably consisting

of composite film and/or ceramic spraying material (for example thatfrom the Evonik Industries AG company going by the trade name ofSeparion) and/or heat-shielding adhesive gel and/or expanding foam withanti-combustion protection and/or PCM (phase change material) and ispreferably sprayed onto the hazardous material from containers.

The flame-retardant and/or gas and/or fluid-tight casing for thehazardous material can preferably consist of a polymer solution whichabsorbs multiple times its own weight in water and employs an adhesiveand heat-shielding gel consisting of evenly thickened water without anyair bubbles. The flame-retardant and/or gas and/or fluid-tight casingfor the hazardous material preferably exhibits good adhesiveness even tosmooth perpendicular surfaces. Coating thicknesses of up to 10 mmpreferably ensue. The coating thickness can, however, also be thicker orthinner. Due to its physicochemical properties, the flame-retardantand/or gas and/or fluid-tight casing for the hazardous materialpreferably reduces the evaporation rate of the water even at hightemperatures. This further preferably reduces the amount ofextinguishing water used. The flame-retardant and/or gas and/orfluid-tight casing for the hazardous material is preferably at leastpartly biodegradable. Particularly preferential flame-retardant and/orgas and/or fluid-tight casings for hazardous material have a productviscosity of 200-500 mPas at 20° C. Product viscosity can, however, alsobe higher or lower. Further particularly preferential flame-retardantand/or gas and/or fluid-tight casings for hazardous material have adensity of 1.05 g/cm³. However, the density can also be higher or lower.

Particularly preferential flame-retardant and/or gas and/or fluid-tightcasings for hazardous material have a pH value between 6.9 and 7.1 at20° C. The pH value can, however, also be higher or lower.

The preferential dosing rate of the flame-retardant and/or gas and/orfluid-tight casing for the hazardous material amounts to 2.0% to 3.0%when shielding. The dosing rate can, however, also be higher or lower.An example of such a flame-retardant and/or gas and/or fluid-tightcasing for hazardous material is marketed by the Evonik company underthe trade name of “Firesorb” (2010; registration number PL 1-98).

It is particularly preferential for at least one safety device to bedesigned as a flame-retardant and/or gas and/or fluid-tight casing forhazardous material which is capable of shielding heat. The casing ispreferably designed such that the respective preferable temperature atthe hazardous material within an accommodating apparatus cannot exceed100° C., 150° C. or 200° C.

The at least one safety device preferably comprises a gas extractiondevice which can comprise a fan, for example. The gas extraction devicepreferably comprises a filter device, an activated charcoal filtersystem for example, which for example suctions off and can preferablyfilter a gas (mixture) produced inside an accommodating apparatus inorder to reduce, modify or prevent gas from leaking into the environmentsurrounding the accommodating apparatus. The filter system can be acatalytic and/or mechanical filter system. The safety device can furthercomprise a filter device independent of the gas extraction device.

Preferably at least one safety device comprises a sensor system which inparticular measures atmospheric pressure and/or mechanical pressureand/or the temperature and/or moisture and/or air composition withinand/or external of the transporting apparatus and/or within and/orexternal of the accommodating apparatus and/or within and/or external ofthe hazardous material. The sensor system can comprise at least onetemperature sensor. The safety device, particularly the sensor system,can comprise a control device which can in particular comprise a

computing device, for example integrated circuits or a microcontroller.

The sensor system can preferably be operably connected to the vehicleand/or the hazardous material, for example in contact with the batterymanagement system (BMS) of an electrochemical energy storage unit, andpreferably trigger an extinguishing system, for example, upon theexceeding or falling short of the defined parameter values of at leastone further safety device.

In one embodiment, the sensor system can be operably connected to atleast one safety device, for example one designed for preventing orcontrolling fires.

Operable connection as used herein also refers to the sensor systemmeasuring specific parameters, for example battery temperature or stateof charge, and effecting for example the release of extinguishing agentfrom a safety device upon the exceeding or falling short of specificpredefined values. However, the sensor system can also for exampleeffect the notifying of the driver of the vehicle, for example by meansof a warning light situated inside the vehicle cabin, or by an audiblesignal, that certain parameter values have been exceeded or fallen shortof so that the driver can take appropriate measures such as activating asafety device designed as a fire extinguisher, for example.

The sensors are advantageously in contact with a control element whichis part of the sensor system and which compares parameter valuesmeasured by the sensor system such as pressure or temperature, forexample, to predefined parameter values and triggers safety devices suchas a fire extinguishing system, for example, upon the exceeding orfalling short of predefined values. The values measured by the sensorsystem

for parameters such as pressure or temperature are preferentiallyindicated to the driver so that the driver can activate safety devicesupon the exceeding or falling short of predefined values.

The transporting apparatus preferably comprises a control device whichcan comprise electrical circuits, a microcontroller, data and powersupply elements. It can further be connected to sensors, the optionalcomponents of the transporting apparatus, particularly the accommodatingapparatus or safety device. Doing so thus enables actively controllingand monitoring the transporting apparatus.

The transporting apparatus preferably comprises a cooling and/ortemperature device which can in particular be monitored by the controldevice. This thereby counteracts the developing of a criticaltemperature within the transporting apparatus, the accommodatingapparatus respectively.

The transporting apparatus preferably comprises means for monitoring thestate of charge of electrochemical energy storage elements, e.g. cells,batteries, secondary batteries. Said means are in particular designedfor monitoring the charging and/or discharging of such energy storageapparatus. Doing so thus enables for example monitoring the state ofenergy storage apparatus disposed within the transporting apparatusduring transport or storage, for example, particularly any chargingand/or discharging during the transport or storage.

The transporting apparatus, accommodating apparatus respectively,preferably comprises electrical connections to connect electrochemicalenergy storage units.

Thus, a transporting apparatus is obtained which is particularly safeand compact, particularly for transporting hazardous material, forexample electrochemical energy storage units.

In one embodiment, a pallet, preferably a Euro pallet, advantageouslyconstitutes a component of the transporting apparatus as the base plate.In one embodiment, a collar made for example of wood, sheet metal, steelor plastic advantageously constitutes a component of the transportingapparatus as a demarcation from the surroundings. One embodimentadvantageously utilizes an accommodating apparatus composed of aluminumcomposite film and PU foam padding enclosing the hazardous material. Inone embodiment, a safety device, particularly a container ofextinguishing agent, is advantageously positioned on a firsttransporting apparatus, whereby the safety device releases theextinguishing agent upon a minimum temperature and/or minimum pressure,preferably a quick-dissolving capsule triggering the discharge of theextinguishing agent upon a minimum temperature and/or minimum pressure.

The method according to the invention for assembling the inventiveaccommodating apparatus comprises the following, respectively optional,steps:

All the components of an accommodating apparatus are furnished in afirst step. In a further step, the furnished components of theaccommodating apparatus are joined together. All the components of asafety device are furnished in a further step. In a further step, allthe components of the safety device are joined together. Alternatively,already pre-assembled safety devices (for example fire extinguishers) oraccommodating apparatus (for example crates) can be used. In a furtherstep, the safety device can be disposed on or in the accommodatingapparatus and vice versa, thereby producing an inventive transportingapparatus. Alternatively, at least one safety device can be provided fora plurality of accommodating apparatus

in order to produce an inventive transporting apparatus.

The inventive transporting apparatus can preferably be used to transportin particular new, new types of, newly developed or market-readyshipments of hazardous material or freight, particularly to transportnew, new types of, newly developed or market-ready electrochemicalenergy storage units.

The inventive transporting apparatus can preferably be used to transportin particular damaged, defective or leaking shipments of hazardousmaterial or freight, particularly to transport damaged, defective orleaking electrochemical energy storage units.

Features of the inventive method and device can be combined to configurethe respectively inventive object.

The following terms are defined in particular with respect to describingthe invention:

A “salvage packaging” is a packaging apparatus used to transportdamaged, defective or leaking hazardous material which has spilled orleaked so as to transport same for the purpose of recycling or disposal.

“Hazardous material” is also referred to as dangerous goods or hazardoussubstances. The term encompasses substances, items, products, devices,components, solutions, compounds, preparations or mixtures which containsubstances which can leak during their transport due to their chemicaland/or physical properties and/or chemical and/or

physical state and/or nature and pose a danger to important goods or thehealth or life of people, animals, the environment, nature or otherentities, as well as to the public, public safety or order, such aselectrochemical energy storage apparatus (e.g. lithium ion cells), forexample. The hazardous material can for example already be enclosedwithin a first casing.

“Transport” is the shipping of goods of any type by water, land or air.In conjunction with the present invention, the term “transport” inparticular encompasses transporting, storing, salvaging, packaging,shipping, etc. of hazardous material.

“Chemical substances” encompasses compounds, substances, solutions,mixtures and/or preparations in solid, liquid or gaseous state.

The “outer packaging” is the external casing of a combined or compositepackaging including all the devices which are needed and/or suited toenclosing and/or protecting inner receptacles or inner packaging.

A first component is “operably connected” to a second component when achange in the state of the first component also effects a change instate of the second component and/or vice versa. If, for example, asensor measures a rise in temperature and thus triggers a fireextinguishing system, the sensor and fire extinguishing system are thusoperably connected. If, however, a sensor measures a rise intemperature, for example, but only signals the increased temperature,for example to the driver and the driver only thereupon triggers thefire extinguishing system, then the fire extinguishing system and sensorare in no way operably connected.

An “electrochemical energy storage apparatus” refers to an apparatuswhich also comprises at least one galvanic cell. The apparatus alsocomprises further devices serving the at least one galvanic cell'soperation. The at least one galvanic cell and supplementary devices canthereby be disposed in one common housing. As of a certain number ofgalvanic cells, the electro-chemical energy storage apparatus can alsoconsist of a plurality of units. The term “galvanic cell” encompassesall types of electrical energy stores, particularly electrochemicalenergy stores; i.e. primary and secondary cells in particular but alsoother electrical energy stores such as e.g. capacitors.

A “plate” is a substantially cube-shaped body, its preferred expansionin preferably the vertical direction (height) being less than itstwo-dimensional preferably horizontal expansion (length and/or width).The plate is preferably stable, for example it will not deform evenunder a weight load in the direction of gravity. The Euro pallet isdefined as being an example of a plate.

The “periphery” is defined by the sum of all lines which span a commonplane. A “periphery” preferably refers to the periphery of asubstantially cube-shaped body defined by its two-dimensional preferablyhorizontal expansion, also referred to as the length and width.

“Adsorption” describes a process in which substances at a phase boundarybetween two phases (e.g. a surface) accumulate.

“Absorption” describes a process in which substances are absorbed in theabsorbing phase.

Further advantages, features and application possibilities of thepresent invention will be evident from the following description ofembodiments coupled with the drawings, which show:

FIG. 1 a schematic view of a first embodiment of an assembled andready-to-use inventive transporting apparatus comprising a fireextinguisher in accordance with the invention;

FIG. 2 a schematic view of the configuration of a further embodiment ofan inventive transporting apparatus as well as an embodiment of theinventive method for its assembly;

FIG. 3 a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of an inventivetransporting apparatus comprising a drip pan and gas extraction device;and

FIG. 4 a cross-sectional view of a further inventive embodiment of aninventive transporting apparatus comprising four smaller accommodatingapparatus and an integrated sensor system.

FIG. 1 depicts an inventive transporting apparatus 100 consisting of anaccommodating apparatus comprised of a base plate 110, a frame 120 and acover 130. A safety device is situated in the cover 130, preferablydesigned as a pad comprising an extinguishing agent 132, predeterminedbreaking points (not shown) and a further safety device 134, for examplea dissolving capsule which occasions the release of the extinguishingagent 132 into the interior of transporting apparatus 100 upon e.g. arise in temperature or pressure. This can for example be induced by arise in pressure within the pad wherein one or more predeterminedbreaking points opens, for example, and the extinguishing agent 132 isdischarged into the transporting apparatus 100, preferably byatomization.

The frame 120, cover 130 and base plate 110 of the accommodatingapparatus are connected together, preferably such that there can be nogas or fluid exchange between the transporting apparatus 100 and theenvironment and vice versa.

FIG. 2 depicts a method of assembling an inventive transportingapparatus which can also relate to the example of transporting apparatus100.

A first step involves furnishing the accommodating apparatus comprisedof a frame 120, a cover 130 and the base or bottom plate 110 formed by aEuro pallet. In a second step, the frame 120 is placed on and connectedto the base plate 110.

In a third, separate step, the hazardous material 150 is inserted into acontainer 140 which can comprise a casing 144 containing filler material142, which can also be designed as a safety device surrounding thehazardous material 150. The casing 144 can be formed of aluminumcomposite film, for example, preferably so that neither gases nor fluidscan reach the environment through the casing 144 and vice versa. Thefiller material 142 can be composed of quick-hardening foam, forexample, e.g. PU foam.

The hazardous material 150 can be inserted prior to filling thecontainer 140 with filler material 142 or also afterwards. The hazardousmaterial 150 is preferably inserted into the container 140 such that thefiller material 142 evenly surrounds the hazardous material 150 in allspatial directions.

In a fourth step, the container 140 containing the hazardous material150, casing 144 and filler material 142 is inserted into theaccommodating apparatus comprised by the base plate 110 and frame 120.

The volume of the container 140 is preferably selected so as tocorrespond to the interior volume of the accommodating apparatuscomprised by the frame 120 and base plate 110. The upper delimitationcorresponds to the height of the frame 120. The lateral dimensions ofthe container 140 are selected so as not to exceed the lateraldimensions of the Euro pallet 110. Any gaps there might be between theframe 120, base plate 110 and container 140 can be filled with fillermaterial, for example PU foam, Styrofoam or paper so as to restrict,preferably eliminate, movement of the container 140 within theaccommodating apparatus 110, 120.

In a fifth step, a locking device, namely a cover 130, is placed on theaccommodating apparatus filled with the container 140 and fixedlyconnected to said accommodating apparatus, more specifically to itsframe 120, preferably such that no fluid or gas can be exchanged betweenthe environment and the finished transporting apparatus 100. The cover130 preferably sits flush with the container 140. Any gaps there mightbe between the cover 130 and the container 140 can be filled with fillermaterial, for example PU foam, Styrofoam or paper so as to provide aflush closure between the cover 130 and the container 140.

The cover 130 comprises a safety device with fire extinguishing agent132 and a further safety device 134, for example a dissolving capsule,which triggers the release of the extinguishing agent 132 within thetransporting apparatus 100 upon a rise in temperature or pressure,preferably by atomization.

The cover 130 is assembled in a separate step. A cover 130 provided witha cavity can for example be furnished.

A container filled e.g. with extinguishing agent 132 under pressure andcomprising a predetermined breaking point can be situated in saidcavity. The activating device 134, e.g. a dissolving capsule, can besituated at the predetermined breaking point of the container filledwith extinguishing agent 132 which triggers a break at the predeterminedbreaking point upon a rise in temperature or pressure, for example.When, for example, the container filled with extinguishing agent 132 isunder pressure, the extinguishing agent can be discharged byatomization, which is preferential with respect to the presentinvention.

Hence, a safe, simple and compact transporting apparatus 100 is obtainedfor the transporting and storage of hazardous material 150.

FIG. 3 depicts a cross section of an embodiment of an inventivetransporting apparatus 102 comprising a drip pan 170 for fluids leakingfrom the container 140. The drip pan 170 is disposed on a base plate160. The external length and width dimensions of the drip pan 170 aregreater than the external length and width dimensions of the base plate160. Spacer devices 172 space the bottom of the drip pan 170 from theunderside of the bottom of the container 140 serving as theaccommodating apparatus for the hazardous material 150.

The container 140 consists of a preferably stable casing 144. The casing144 encloses a volume in which the hazardous material 150 can beaccommodated. The volume of the hazardous material 150 and the volumedefined by the inner wall of casing 144 is preferably selected such thatthere will be space remaining after the hazardous material 150 isinserted into the casing 144 which can then be filled with fillermaterial 142. The filler material 142 preferably surrounds the hazardousmaterial 150 so as to restrict, preferably eliminate, movement of thehazardous material 150 within the container 140. The hazardous material150 is preferably inserted into the casing 144 such that the fillermaterial 142 will evenly surround the hazardous material 150 in allspatial directions.

Gases escaping from the hazardous material 150 can be aspirated and/orpreferably rendered harmless by a gas extraction device 180, preferablycomprising an activated charcoal filter system.

FIG. 4 depicts a cross section of a transporting apparatus 104consisting of an outer casing 190, one or more containers 140 serving asaccommodating apparatus for hazardous material 150, a fire extinguishingagent 132, a control device 138 for activating or releasing theextinguishing agent 132 and a plurality of sensors 135, 136 in contactwith the control device 138.

The containers 140 respectively consist of a casing 144 which preferablyallows a plurality of containers 140 to be stacked. Each casing 144encompasses a respective volume in which the hazardous material 150 andthe filler material 142 are inserted. The filler material 142 preferablyencloses the hazardous material 150 so as to restrict, preferablyeliminate, movement of the hazardous material 150 within the container140. The hazardous material 150 is preferably positioned in the casing144 such that the filler material 142 encloses the hazardous material150 substantially evenly in all spatial directions.

A sensor 135 is affixed to the respective hazardous material 150 in acontainer 140. Said sensor 135 can also extend into the hazardousmaterial. If the hazardous material 150 is an electro-chemical energystorage apparatus, for example, the sensor 135 can then be connected tothe BMS (battery management system) of the electrochemical energystorage apparatus 150.

The sensor 135 can measure parameters such as pressure, temperature andair composition, for example, and transmit the data to the controldevice 138. Further sensors 136 are preferably disposed inside andexternal of the outer casing 190 of the transporting apparatus 104 inorder to measure parameters such as pressure, temperature and aircomposition, for example, and transmit the data to the control device138.

Said control device 138 can for example compare the parameter valuesreturned by the sensors 135, 136 to predetermined parameter values andactivate or discharge the extinguishing agent 132 within the interior ofthe transporting apparatus 104 upon an exceeding or falling short ofsaid predefined limit values. The control device 138 preferably alertsthe driver of such parameter values received, the driver then also beingable to initiate the discharge of the extinguishing agent 132 from theextinguisher.

REFERENCE NUMERALS

-   100, 102, 104 transporting apparatus-   110, 160 base plate, bottom plate-   120 frame-   130 locking device, cover-   132 extinguishing agent-   134 activating device-   135, 136 sensors-   138 control device-   140 container-   142 filler material-   144 casing-   150 hazardous material-   170 drip pan-   172 spacer device(s)-   180 gas extraction apparatus-   190 outer casing

1-13. (canceled)
 14. A transporting apparatus for hazardous material,particularly for at least one electrochemical energy storage apparatus,comprising: at least one accommodating apparatus configured to at leastpartially accommodating the hazardous material; and at least one safetydevice configured to counter a hazard posed by the accommodatedhazardous material.
 15. The transporting apparatus according to claim14, wherein the at least one safety device comprises at least one meansfor chemical adsorption and/or physical adsorption and/or chemicalabsorption and/or physical absorption of liquid and/or gaseous and/orsolid substances.
 16. The transporting apparatus according to claim 14,wherein the at least one safety device comprises at least one device forat least one of (a) fire prevention and (b) fire control.
 17. Thetransporting apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the at least onesafety device comprises a gas extraction apparatus.
 18. The transportingapparatus according to claim 14, wherein the gas extraction apparatuscomprises a filter system.
 19. The transporting apparatus according toclaim 14, wherein the at least one safety device comprises at least onedrip pan.
 20. The transporting apparatus according to claim 14, whereinthe at least one safety device comprises a sensor configured to measurea parameter and the safety device is thereby configured to automaticallytrigger a safety procedure as a function of the measured parameter. 21.The transporting apparatus according to claim 20, wherein the parameteris at least one of (a) temperature and (b) pressure.
 22. Thetransporting apparatus according to claim 20, wherein the at least onesafety device comprises an extinguishing agent.
 23. The transportingapparatus according to claim 20, wherein the at least one safety devicecomprises a pad, the interior of which accommodates an extinguishingagent.
 24. The transporting apparatus according to claim 14, wherein theaccommodating apparatus comprises at least one base plate substantiallyformed as a Euro pallet and at least one container for accommodating thehazardous material, the length and width dimensions of which inparticular substantially correspond to or are smaller than a Europallet.
 25. The transporting apparatus according to claim 14, whereinthe accommodating apparatus comprises at least one container foraccommodating the hazardous material, wherein said container is at leastpartially filled with a filler material.
 26. The transporting apparatusaccording to claim 14, wherein the at least one safety device isoperably connected to a battery management system accommodated by theaccommodating apparatus.
 27. A method of producing a transportingapparatus according to claim 14, comprising at least the following stepsin any order: furnishing at least one accommodating apparatus configuredto at least partially accommodate the hazardous material which cancomprise a casing; and disposing at least one safety device on or insaid accommodating apparatus to counter a hazard posed by theaccommodated hazardous material.
 28. A method comprising: using thetransporting apparatus according to any claim 14, for the transportingor storage of lithium-based electrochemical energy storage apparatus ortheir components, particularly for the salvaging of defectiveelectrochemical energy storage apparatus.